Dexter bearing adjustment procedure

Timeking wrote:
I totally get NOT using the EZlube fitting (ruined some brakes), Timken parts, and annual service. What I don't get is the conflicting methods being used to set the zero backlash on the bearing, i.e., 0.001 to 0.005 clearance.

My previous trailer had Alko axles, and I adjusted the bearing per Alko recommendations: rotate and tighten to 20 ft-lbs, loosen nut without motion, tighten to 8 ft lbs, back off one castellation, stick the pin in. Never had a problem in 60,000 miles.

My 2018 Rockwood has Dexter axles. Dexter says to rotate and tighten to 50 ft-lbs, loosen the nut, and then "hand tighten" the nut and back off a bit. What kind of procedure is that? Hand tighten?

If you go on Youtube, people are doing all sorts of crazy stuff, everything from tighten by hand and back off a full quarter rotation.

The Alko method seems scientific, the Dexter method seems weird, and many of the Youtube ideas will cause a failure I'm sure.

So .... from someone who has actually done this several times, and has gone 10's of thousands of miles ... how are you doing it?

PS: Dexter didn't see fit to install brake adjustment hole dust plugs which causes me concern for their commitment to quality.

The procedure you describe is correct (per the Dexter manual) and I've done it that way for years. You torque the nut to 50 lbs and rotate the wheel. These seats the bearing a forces out excess grease. Then you back the nut off to the next cotter pin hole. This allows the bearing to run very slightly "loose". Simple process actually.